“…as you move to your next assignment which is quite prominent”

By Farai D Hove| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has dropped the clearest hint that retired Gen Constantino Chiwenga is going to be Zimbabwe’s new first Vice President.

That position automatically sets Chiwenga as Mnangagwa’s perceived successor, according to the hierarchical order. The development which comes contrary to rumours that Mnangagwa was going to appoint Manicaland war-lady Oppah Munchinguri-Kashiri to the post, is likely to see the President also appoint a Ndebele Second Deputy as according to the 1987 Unity Accord which dictates so.

The Reuters news agency quotes Mnangagwa at a ceremony marking Constantino Chiwenga’s retirement and handover of the military reins to Phillip Sibanda saying,”I therefore urge you to maintain the same loyalty, robustness and dedication to duty as you move to your next assignment which is quite prominent.”

Mnangagwa did not elaborate.

The events of the last 4 weeks said to have been largely peaceful speak loudly against what Mnangagwa’s nemesis Phelekezela Mphoko had predicted months before that there would chaos upon Mugabe’s removal.

Mnangagwa last Friday said he would fill the two vice presidential posts in the following few days. Chiwenga is the top contender in what is seen as a reward for helping to end Mugabe’s 37-year rule.

So far the President has appointed several senior military officers to his cabinet and the ruling party’s executive politburo since he was sworn in as president on Nov. 24.

On Monday, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Misheck Sibanda announced that Chiwenga had retired pending redeployment. Chiwenga who has never been in visible politics for decades, has gained popularity with the masses following his successful handling of the Operation Restore Order mid last month.